Being arrested for and charged with a DUI is an unpleasant experience, to say the least. However, an experienced DUI attorney can be a great asset to you in this situation.

The following are six assumptions you shouldn't make when you're contemplating hiring a DUI attorney. 

You will eventually be able to expunge a DUI conviction

Unfortunately, DUI charges cannot always be expunged. The chances you have of successfully expunging a DUI conviction depend on the state in which you are charged and the number of DUI convictions you've previously had.

The fact that you may not be able to expunge a DUI conviction makes it especially important to fight a DUI charge with the right attorney. 

You won't have to go to jail if you plead guilty to a first-time DUI

While you might not face any jail time for a first DUI conviction in some states, you may have to go to jail for a first tie conviction if you face a DUI in others states. Avoiding a conviction is therefore essential for many defendants in DUI cases. 

It's too expensive to hire a DUI attorney

You might be surprised at how affordable it is to hire a DUI attorney. Even if it costs more than you hoped to hire a DUI attorney, you should know that your DUI attorney can significantly reduce costs overall by succeeding at having charges dropped. 

You can never win against a DUI charge

There are many good legal arguments that can overturn a DUI charge. While DUI charges can be hard to win against in certain scenarios, you should never assume that your case is hopeless. Make sure that you discuss your situation with a DUI attorney to determine the best step forward after a DUI charge. 

You can easily represent yourself in the event of a DUI charge

A DUI charge is a criminal charge. Criminal convictions can have severe consequences on your future. It's important to not take any risks when you're facing a DUI charge by trying to represent yourself.

Hiring a DUI attorney rather than opting for independent representation typically results in much better outcomes for DUI defendants.  

The police can't successfully charge you with a DUI if you weren't driving at the time of your arrest

In most states, a driver can be charged with a DUI if they were caught under the influence at a moment when they could be considered in "physical control" of their vehicle. This means that police may be able to successfully charge you if you are found near your vehicle with your keys in your possession when you are over the legal alcohol limit. 

For more information, contact a DUI attorney near you.

Share